Removable input mechanisms for a portable computer

ABSTRACT

An embodiment of invention includes a handheld computer having a display. The display provides an output to a user-input. A housing includes a front panel that provides access to the display. A plurality of user-interactive mechanisms are provided on the housing. The user-input mechanisms include a first mechanism that is removably coupled to the housing.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/832,411, filed Apr. 10, 2001, entitled “Portable Computers WithRemoveable Input Mechanisms.” The aforementioned priority application ishereby incorporated by reference for all purposes in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to the field of handheld computers. Inparticular, the invention relates to input mechanisms for handheldcomputers.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Handheld computers use buttons as one means for receiving user-input. Inparticular, personal digital assistants (PDAs) use application buttonsfor making selections and launching programs, and scroll buttons toscroll displayed output.

Typically, handheld computers such as PDAs operate core functions formaintaining calendars, to-do lists, phone books, memos and electronicscrap books. The buttons provided with handheld computers are oftenoptimized to carry out the core functions. Sometimes the buttons arelabeled with icons to indicate a certain purpose. They may also beassigned to certain applications. For example, a memo button may be usedto launch the memo application.

Due to its popularity and advancements in processing resources, handheldcomputers are increasingly used for more diverse applications. Theadditional processing resources and expansion slots have provided userswith a medium to add applications requiring more interaction, such asfor example, games. For PDAs, users must play games using the samebutton configuration for operating the core functions. While previouscore functions may require users to press the buttons sporadically,games may require prolonged and intense use of the buttons.

In general, the buttons on the handheld computer are integrated into thehousing. If the buttons break, the user is required to open the handheldcomputer, and often must send the handheld computer away for repair.Often, it is easier for the user to replace the handheld computer ratherthan repair the buttons.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the invention include a removable or attachable set ofuser-input mechanisms for a handheld computer. The handheld computer maybe configured to provide input mechanisms that are decoupleable from itshousing. These user-input mechanisms may include buttons positioned on asurface of the handheld computer. Embodiments of the invention enablethe buttons to be replaced with other buttons.

Alternatively, a set of the user-input mechanisms may be mounted overexisting buttons and controls of the handheld computer. For example,attachable button sets may be provided on cartridges or other forms ofhousings. The cartridges may couple to a portion of the handheldcomputer's housing.

Among other advantages, the handheld computer and attachable button setsenable users to replace buttons on the handheld computer if they break.The user may also swap buttons on the handheld computer to operate anapplication on the handheld computer that requires intense button use,or is more suited for a different button configuration.

In addition, users may use analog controls with a handheld computeroperated to receive digital user inputs. For example, a handheldcomputer may be coupled to a joy stick or joy pad having 8 possibledirectional movements.

With removable and attachable button sets, joy sticks and pads, usersmay be provided with the ability to optimize the controls on thehandheld computer for different applications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a front isometric view of a handheld computer being combinedwith a removable attachment carrying a set of user-input mechanisms,under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the attachment in FIG. 1, under an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view cut along lines A-A of FIG. 2, under anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a front isometric view of an attachment carrying another setof user-input mechanisms, under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a front isometric view of a handheld computer equipped withbuttons and other input mechanisms that are individually removable,under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a timing diagram for operating digital and analog inputmechanisms with a handheld computer, under an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 7 is a front isometric view of an attachable device providinguser-input mechanisms overlaid onto a handheld computer with existinguser-input mechanisms, under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a front isometric view of the attachable device in FIG. 7,under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a back view of the attachable device in FIG. 7, under anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a front isometric view of an other attachable deviceproviding user-input mechanisms, including a multi-directional control,overlaid onto a handheld computer with existing user-input mechanisms,under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a top view of an attachable device overlaid onto existinginput mechanisms of a handheld computer, where the attachable deviceincludes a multi-directional pad, under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a top view of an attachable device overlaid onto existinginput mechanisms of a handheld computer, where the attachable deviceincludes a multi-directional member, under an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 13 is a front isometric view of an attachable device for a handheldcomputer, the attachable device including an analog wheel inputmechanism, under an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a front isometric view of an attachable device for a handheldcomputer, the attachable device including a splitter coupled to twomulti-directional input mechanisms, under an embodiment of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A. System Overview

Embodiments of the invention provide a removable set of input mechanismsfor users to operate a handheld computer. The removable set of inputmechanisms may be replaced by other sets of input mechanisms. As aresult, the versatility of the handheld computer is enhanced. Inparticular, the handheld computer may operate a diverse range ofprograms, and be equipped to provide input mechanisms that are bettersuited for select applications, as needed.

Other embodiments of the invention provide for an attachable devicehaving one or more input mechanisms that may be overlaid onto anexisting set of input mechanisms for a handheld computer. The attachabledevice may be used to alter the configuration of the existing inputmechanisms, so as to match a preference of the user. In particular,certain configurations for input mechanisms may facilitate use of someapplications. For example, a handheld computer may be operated with agame, and an attachable button set may place buttons in proximity oneanother to enable the user to play the game better.

B. Handheld Computer With Removable Input Mechanisms

FIG. 1 illustrates a handheld computer 100 configured to receive aremovable attachment 200 having a plurality of input mechanisms, underan embodiment of the invention. The handheld computer 100 includes ahousing 110. A display 120 is provided on a front panel 112 of housing110. A portion of display 120 includes a display input area 124. Thedisplay input area 124 includes a handwriting recognition area forreceiving handwritten gestures as input. The display input area 124 maybe a digital display area of display 120, or a non-displayed portion ofdisplay 120. The handheld computer 100 has a length defined by a top 102and bottom 104, and a width extending between lateral sides 105, 105.

Adjacent to display 120 is an input section comprising a plurality ofinteractive input mechanisms for receiving user-input. Examples ofinteractive input mechanisms include buttons used to enter data and makeselections on the handheld computer. Other examples of interactivemechanisms include scroll buttons for manipulating the output providedon display 120. Still further, input mechanisms may include joysticks,push-buttons, glide pointers, and wheel button sets.

The front panel 112 may be positioned into segments that includeattachment 200. On handheld computer 100, a platform 140 is formed whereattachment 200 is to be received and coupled. The platform 140 includesa pair of opposing coupling structures 145, rising vertically fromplatform 140. In an embodiment, each coupling structure 145 includes arail slot 146, having a divot 148. Each divot 148 is to retaincorresponding structures on attachment 200.

A plurality of conductive contacts 155, 156 are formed on platform 140.In an embodiment shown, four button contacts 155 extend a length acrossplatform 140. A pair of scroll contacts 156 are positioned towards themiddle of the four button contacts, and are distributed along adirection perpendicular to the length. The button contacts 155 andscroll contacts 156 provide actuation signals when contacted by otherconductive elements, such as provided on attachment 200. Ground contacts158 are also provided for each of the plurality of contacts 155, 156.

The attachment 200 includes a front panel surface 212 that forms theremaining portion of front panel 112 when attachment 200 is joined withhandheld computer 100. When joined, front panel surface 212 is flushwith the remaining portion of front panel 112 on handheld computer 100.The attachment 200 includes a first button 210, a second button 220, ascroll button 230, a third button 240, and a fourth button 250. Thescroll button 230 includes a top scroll button 232 and a bottom scrollbutton 234. In one exemplary use, buttons 210, 220, 240 and 250 are tolaunch programs and make selection on entries being displayed on display120. The scroll button 230, including top scroll button 232 and bottomscroll button 234 are to scroll what is being displayed upward anddownward, respectively.

The attachment 200 includes coupling slots 245, 245, positioned to beengageable with corresponding coupling structure 145 on handheldcomputer 100. A shape of each coupling slot 245, 245 matches a shape ofthe corresponding coupling structure 145. A thickness of attachment 200matches a distance between platform 140 and front panel 112 of handheldcomputer 100.

FIG. 2 is a bottom end view of removable attachment 200. As shown, eachslot 245 includes an exterior lateral side 242 and an interior lateralside 244. A rail 246 extends inward from exterior lateral side 242 ofeach slot. Each slot 245 slideably receives coupling structure 145. Therails 246 engage rail slots 146 of handheld computer 100.

FIG. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of removable attachment 200, cutalong lines A-A of FIG. 2. The rail 246 (extending from exterior lateralside 242) may include a protrusion 248 to engage divot 148 of couplingstructure 145. The same construction may be used for the opposite rail246.

In another embodiment, protrusion 248 may be replaced with a biasedmember or latching mechanism. For example, a latch member may extendalong a portion of a length of rail 246 and at an acute angle. The latchmember may be moved upwards to a biased position when engaged with railslot 146 coupling structure 145. The latch member may return to anunbiased original position when the latch member engages divot 148.

FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment for a removable attachment 300.The attachment of FIG. 4 differs from previous embodiments in that theconfiguration of the input mechanisms now include 2 buttons 310 and ajoy stick 320. The joy stick 320 may be an analog device, using scrollcontacts 156 and two of the button contacts 155 on platform 140 (seeFIG. 1). Alternatively, additional contacts may be provided on platform140 for use with joystick 320.

FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment in which one or more inputmechanisms on handheld computer 400 are individually removable. All orselect input mechanisms may be configured to be removable andinterchangeable. The handheld computer 400 includes a plurality of inputmechanisms, including a first button 410, second button 420, scrollbuttons 430, third button 440 and fourth button 450. Each inputmechanism may be provided as a removable attachment 460. In the exampleshown, a third button 440 is provided on an individual attachment 460.The attachment 460 is adjacent on each side to a coupling structure 445.The coupling structure 445 may use concepts described with couplingstructure 145 of FIG. 1, including a rail slot and divot. The couplingstructure 445 may be provided on lateral sides of adjacent inputmechanisms, or on separate structures extending vertically from platform438. For example, with third button 440, coupling structures 445 may beincluded on scroll button 430 and fourth button 450, or between scrollbutton 430 and third button 440, as well as between third button 440 andfourth button 450. Furthermore, each input mechanism that is provided asa removable attachment may include the slot 445 and rail configuration446, shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

C. Protocol for Removable Input Mechanisms

Embodiments of the invention include a protocol for enabling removableand interchangeable input mechanisms for use with handheld computer 100(see FIG. 1). Reference to numerals of other figures is intended toillustrate exemplary components for use with embodiments of theinvention.

In an embodiment, a protocol requires four signal lines from processingresources of handheld computer 100. The four signal lines include data,clock, power (+3V), and ground. The four signal lines may be used toenable handheld computer 100 to be compatible with digital and analoginput mechanisms. As such, handheld computer 100 is provided theversatility to be operated with joy sticks and other devices that useanalog values.

An input device may be coded as digital or analog. Each time one of thebuttons is pressed, a “frame” is sent over the data line. The first byteof the frame uses two bits to identify the device as either analog ordigital. In the example provided, digital is provided by 1,1, and analogis provided by 1,0. Further, a multi-directional analog input devicesmay be identified as two (and possibly more) digital input devices, withone device being equated for each of two directional axes (i.e. X andY). Each input device identified for an analog input device signals datasequentially.

Each input device is provided an identification (ID). For analog inputdevices, each axis is provided an identification, as it is considered tobe a separate digital input device. The contacts 155, 156 (FIG. 1)detect values for each input device. For analog input devices, thecontacts may be used to associate analog values with each of the digitalinput devices. The analog value may be determined by internal componentsof the input mechanism, which convert the analog value to a digitalformat for the handheld computer. Alternatively, analog values maycorrespond to a duration over a clock cycle.

A joystick or pad that can be operated in 8 directions may include 8analog input device ID's. Since each analog input device is defined by 2digital input device ID's, 16 total bit are used to identify inputmechanisms. The joystick or pad would require all 16 identifications forits use.

Values for digital input devices may be coded differently for analoginput devices. If an input device is identified as digital, 1 bit isused to identify the value provided from the input mechanism. If aninput device is identified as analog, 8 bits are used to identify theanalog value for that input device.

In addition, start and stop sequences may be used to differentiateinformation from input devices. Each start and stop sequence may becomposed of the first 2 bits in the first byte signaled with the frame.In the example provided, the start and stop sequence is in the form of1,0. When the start and stop sequence is encountered, the processingresources of handheld computer 100 identify the next sequence as a newinput device. For a joystick, that may correspond to a different axis ofthe existing joystick position, or a new position for the joystick.

FIG. 6 is a signal diagram illustrating processing values from a digitalinput device and an analog input device. A clock signal 610 provides adifferentiating signal for use with identifying the input device on thedata line. The diagram illustrates a frame signaled when one of theinput mechanisms is actuated. The frame includes a frame start sequence,button type, button identifier, button value and frame end sequence. Adata pin signal 620 carries the frame when the input mechanism isactuated. In a first 2-bit sequence, the type of input device isidentified (1,1 for digital; 1,0 for analog).

A subsequent 4-bit signal identifies the input device. If the inputdevice is a digital type, the ID may identify its position on theplatform 140 of handheld computer 100 (FIG. 1). For example, the ID mayidentify its position on conductive contacts 155, 156 of platform 140(see FIG. 1). The next bit is the digital value of that input device,shown to be 0. Each input mechanism (button, joystick etc.) includeshardware to signal the input mechanism's identification with the frameupon being actuated. The hardware for each input mechanism may also beused to identify the mechanism's type and its value when actuated.

If the input device is analog, the ID may identify a directionalcomponent. For example, for an 8-directional joystick, analog IDs may beassigned according to, for example, a configuration in which north=1,north-east=2, east=3, south-0 east=4 etc. The digital input device IDmay provide a value for the east direction of ajoystick movement. Forexample, with the digital input device=3, the subsequent analog valuemay be for the east component, in instances when the analog ID of thejoystick may be 2, 3 or 4. The analog value is assigned the next 8-bitsof the clock cycle. In one embodiment, the analog input mechanismincludes hardware for determining an analog value when actuated. Thehardware includes an analog-digital converter to signal the analog valuein digital format to the processing resources of the handheld computer.

D. Overlaid Input Mechanisms

Embodiments of the invention may provide for a device including one ormore input mechanisms that can be mounted over existing input mechanismsof a handheld computer 700. The device may provide a new configurationfor an input mechanism. For example, the new configuration mayreposition input mechanisms for the handheld computer, alter the numberof input mechanisms, and/or change the nature of one or more of theinput mechanisms.

FIG. 7 illustrates handheld computer 700 coupled to an attachable device710. The handheld computer 700 includes a top 702, a bottom and opposinglateral sides 705. The device 710 includes a plurality of inputmechanisms, including buttons 720, 722, 724 and 726, a first scrollbutton 725 and a second scroll button 728. The input mechanisms ofdevice 710 may defer from the existing input mechanisms by, for example,size of the buttons 720-726, or positioning of the buttons relative oneanother or relative to a front panel 712 of handheld computer 700.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrates the device 710 decoupled from handheldcomputer 700. A bottom end 715 is encases the bottom of handheldcomputer 700. With reference to FIG. 9, a pair of side-walls 730slideably engage corresponding lateral sides 705 of handheld computer700. A latch mechanism or coupling structure (such as shown by FIGS.2-4) may be incorporated into the lateral side 705 and interior sides732 of side-walls 730.

FIG. 10 illustrates handheld computer 700 with an attachable device 810for providing a joy pad 820 and buttons 830. In an embodiment, joy pad820 may use adjacent buttons 720 and scroll buttons 725 and 728. Anexample of how joy pad 820 may be integrated to cooperate with theexisting input mechanisms of handheld computer 7800 is provided withFIG. 11.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment in which joy pad 820 is overlaid oninput mechanisms for handheld computer 700, including first button 720,second button 722, third button 724, fourth button 726, first scrollbuttons 725 and second scroll buttons 728. The joy pad 820 is provided afirst (north) directional button 822, a second (east) directional button824, a third (south) directional button 826, and a fourth (west)directional button 828. A first pivotal member 832 extends between thefirst button 822 and the third button 826. The first pivotal member 832also extends over the first scroll button 725 and second scroll button728 of handheld computer 700 A second pivotal member 834 extends betweenthe second button 824 and the fourth button 828. The second pivotalmember 834 also overlays second button 722 and third button 724.

The directional buttons 822-828 can be pressed individually or in pairsto create 8 possible directions. Each button 822-828 being pressedcauses one of the corresponding pivotal members 832, 834 to pivotdownward in one of two positions. When pivoted downward, the pivotalmembers 832, 834 contact and cause one of the two corresponding inputmechanisms on handheld computer 700 to be pressed.

In an example provided by FIG. 11, first directional button 822 pivotsfirst member 832 into first scroll button 725. The third directionalbutton 826 pivots first member 832 into second scroll button 728. Thesecond directional button 824 pivots second member 834 into third button724 of handheld computer 700. The fourth directional button 828 pivotssecond member 834 into second button 722 on handheld computer 700.

The combination of the first directional button 822 and seconddirectional button 824 being pressed (for north east direction) causesfirst member 832 to pivot into first scroll button 725, and secondmember 834 to pivot into third button 724. The combination of the seconddirectional button 822 and third directional button 824 being pressed(for south east direction) causes first member 832 to pivot into secondscroll button 728, and second member 834 to pivot into third button 724.The combination of the third directional button 824 and fourthdirectional button 826 being pressed (for south west direction) causesfirst member 832 to pivot into second scroll button 728, and secondmember 834 to pivot into second button 722. The combination of the firstdirectional button 822 and fourth directional button 828 being pressed(for south west direction) causes first member 832 to pivot into firstscroll button 725, and second member 834 to pivot into second button722.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment in which a joy stick 910 isprovided on device 900. Similar to an embodiment with device 800, device900 is detachable coupleable to a bottom of handheld computer 700. Thejoy stick 910 is a member extending orthanormally from front panel 712of handheld computer 700.

In an embodiment, joy stick 910 is coupled to first directional members832 and second directional members 834. As described with FIG. 11, joystick 910 may be provided 8 directions of movement, each correspondingto one or two of the input mechanisms on handheld computer 700 beinginserted.

The handheld computer 700 may be configured through programming todistinguish inputs where buttons 720-726 are pressed simultaneously withfirst scroll button 725 or second scroll button 728. In particular,handheld computer 700 may be configured through programming to interpretsimultaneous insertion of one of the buttons 720-726 with one of thescroll buttons 725, 728 in a manner described with FIG. 6 and theaccompanying disclosure.

E. Other Embodiments

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment including an attachable device1010 coupleable to handheld computer 100 (FIG. 1). The attachable device1010 includes a two-directional analog control, called a wheel 1025. Thewheel 1025 is moveable upwards and downwards to cause handheld computer100 to reconfigure or alter the display 120 (FIG. 1). An analog valueoff wheel 1025 ma be associated with its rotation by the user.

FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment including an attachable device1110 coupleable to handheld computer 100 (FIG. 1), The attachable device1110 includes an internal splitter to enable to control devices 1130 tobe extended from it. Each control device 1130 includes anmulti-directional analog control—the joystick 1135, and digital buttons1140. The control devices 1130 may be used for playing games with twoplayers. A protocol for the device 1110 may be established to enable onecontrol 1130 to be active at a time. Each control 130 may be coupled tocontacts 155, 156 on platform 140 (FIG. 1).

F. CONCLUSION

The foregoing description of various embodiments of the invention hasbeen presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is notintended to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Manymodifications and equivalent arrangements will be apparent.

1. A portable computer comprising: a processor; a housing including afront panel on which a platform is provided; a plurality of contactsprovided on the platform; and an integrated input mechanism comprising aplurality of components, wherein the input mechanism is configured to beoperatively positionable on and removeable from the platform so that,(i) when operatively positioned on the platform, each of the pluralityof components overlays at least one of the plurality of contacts, and(ii) when each component in the plurality of components is pressed, theone or more contacts that that component overlays signal a correspondinginput that is received by the processor.
 2. The portable computer ofclaim 1, wherein each component is formed from a material that biaseswhen pressed.
 3. The portable computer of claim 1, wherein when pressed,each component is directed from an original position to an actuatedposition, and while in the actuated position, each component is biasedto return to the original position.
 4. The portable computer of claim 1,wherein each component in the plurality of components is actuatable tosignal the user-input as a digital signal.
 5. The portable computer ofclaim 1, wherein each component in the plurality of components isactuatable to signal the user-input as an analog signal.
 6. The portablecomputer of claim 1, wherein one or more components of the integratedinput mechanism corresponds to a button.
 7. The portable computer ofclaim 1, wherein the integrated input mechanism includes a switch thatis pivotal between a first actuating position, a second actuatingposition, and a neutral position.
 8. The portable computer of claim 1,wherein the integrated input mechanism includes a multi-directionalcontrol.
 9. The portable computer of claim 1, wherein when eachcomponent is pressed, that component is inserted towards the platform.10. The portable computer of claim 1, wherein the corresponding input ofeach component in the integrated input mechanism is an alphanumericentry.
 11. The portable computer of claim 1, further comprising adisplay provided on the front panel of the housing.
 12. The portablecomputer of claim 11, wherein the display is positioned to be apart fromthe platform.
 13. The portable computer of claim 12, wherein theplatform is recessed on the front panel in relation to the display. 14.The portable computer of claim 12, wherein the processor is configuredto provide on the display an output that is based on the correspondinginput signaled by one of the components of the integrated inputmechanism being pressed.
 15. The portable computer of claim 1, whereinone or more of the components of the integrated input mechanism isindividually removeable from the platform.
 16. The portable computer ofclaim 1, wherein the plurality of contacts include at least a set offour contacts distributed on the platform, wherein the set isdistributed linearly in a first direction extending across the platform.17. The portable computer of claim 12, wherein the display iscontact-sensitive.
 18. The portable computer of claim 12, furthercomprising an input member that extends from the front panel and ismoveable in a plurality of directions to cause an input to be processedby the processor, wherein the input of the input member corresponds to adirection in which the member is moved.
 19. The device of claim 17,wherein the integrated input mechanism overlays at least a portion ofthe contact-sensitive display.
 20. The device of claim 19, wherein theintegrated input mechanism further comprises a mechanism that overlaysthe contact-sensitive display and is pressable to cause a contact withthe display that signals an analog input to the processor.